By Joyce DeWallace, Contributing Writer
Westborough – The grounds of Westborough High School were recently transformed into a Union soldiers” camp. The 13th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Company F re-enactors set up canvas tents called dog tents, which were outfitted with camp beds, Civil-War-era lanterns, mess kits and weapons.
The day's activities included company drills, musket-firing demonstrations, and different types of fires showcasing the daily life of a soldier in the early 1860's.
Children were encouraged to participate in drills, and adults, to interact with the soldiers and citizens of this bygone time.
Living History Day was co-sponsored by the Westborough Historical Society and the Westborough Historical Commission to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War. Members wore clothing appropriate to the era and did traditional tasks like knitting socks, drying herbs and wrapping bandages that would have supported the war effort.
A highlight of the day was an afternoon concert by Luanne Crosby, who played her guitar and sang music that was popular in both the North and the South. Her research spanned several months, and her program included patriotic songs, sentimental tunes, and melodies that spoke of love of the country and willingness to die for the cause.